The ICE I-983 form, known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a critical document for international students pursuing an extension of their Optional Practical Training in STEM fields. This form outlines the training plan the student will undertake while working in the United States, ensuring that it meets the educational and professional development objectives necessary for their field of study. Understanding how to accurately complete this form is essential for compliance and optimizing your experience during your practical training.
Start your journey by filling out the ICE I-983 form. Click the button below to begin!
The ICE I-983 form plays a crucial role in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) STEM extension process for international students studying in the United States. This form is designed to ensure that students can apply their academic knowledge in a practical work setting while also meeting specific regulatory requirements. It documents the training plan that students and their employers develop together, outlining how the training relates to the student’s field of study. The I-983 requires details such as the student's goals, employer information, and the specifics of the training program, including how the employer will assess the student's progress. By filling out this form, both students and employers actively participate in an opportunity that enriches the educational experience while also complying with U.S. immigration laws. Additionally, the form encourages students to reflect on their career objectives and how they align with the work they will be doing. This ensures that the training meets both the student's and the employer's expectations, ultimately supporting professional growth and development.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS
OMB APPROVAL NO. 1653-0054 EXPIRATION DATE: 7/31/2021
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT)
SECTION 1: STUDENT INFORMATION (Completed by Student)
Student Name (Surname/Primary Name, Given Name):
Student Email Address:
Name of School Recommending
Name of School Where STEM
SEVIS School Code of School Recommending STEM OPT (including 3-
STEM OPT:
Degree Was Earned:
digit suffix):
Designated School Official (DSO) Name and Contact Information:
Student SEVIS ID No.:
STEM OPT Requested Period (mm-dd-yyyy):
From:
To:
Qualifying Major and Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Code:
Level/Type of Qualifying Degree:
Date Awarded (mm-dd-yyyy):
Based on Prior Degree?
Yes
Employment Authorization Number:
No
SECTION 2: STUDENT CERTIFICATION
I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the statements and information made herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that the law provides severe penalties for knowingly and willfully falsifying or concealing a material fact, or using any false document in the submission of this form.
I certify that:
1.I have reviewed,understand,and will adhere to this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (“Plan”);
2.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity if I believe that my employer is not providing me with appropriate training as delineated on this Plan;
3.I understand that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may deny, revoke, or terminate the STEM OPT of students whom DHS determines are not engaging in OPT in compliance with the law, including the STEM OPT of students who are not, or whose employers are not, complying with this Plan;
4.My practical training opportunity is directly related to the STEM degree that qualifies me for the STEM OPT extension; and
5.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity regarding any material changes to or deviations from this Plan, including but not limited to, any change of Employer Identification Number resulting from a corporate restructuring, any nontrivial reduction in compensation from the amount previously submitted on the Plan that is not tied to a reduction in hours worked, any significant decrease in hours per week that I engage in a STEM training opportunity, and any decrease in hours below the 20-hours-per-week minimum required under this rule.
Signature of Student (Sign in ink):
Printed Name of Student:
Date (mm-dd-yyyy):
ICE Form I-983 (7/16)
Page 1 of 5
SECTION 3: EMPLOYER INFORMATION (Completed by Employer)
Employer Name:
Street Address:
Suite:
Employer Website URL:
City:
State:
ZIP Code:
Employer ID Number (EIN):
Number of Full-Time
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code:
Employees in U.S.:
OPT Hours Per Week (must be at least 20
Compensation:
hours/week):
A. Salary Amount and Frequency:
B. Other Compensation (Type and Estimated Amount or Value):
Start Date of Employment (mm-dd-yyyy):
1.
2.
3.
4.
SECTION 4: EMPLOYER CERTIFICATION
I certify on behalf of the employer that this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (“Plan”) is approved and that:
1.I have reviewed and understand this Plan, and I will ensure that the supervising Official follows this Plan;
2.I will notify the DSO at the earliest available opportunity regarding any material changes to this Plan, including but not limited to, any change of Employer Identification Number resulting from a corporate restructuring, any reduction in compensation from the amount previously submitted on the Plan that is not tied to a reduction in hours worked, any significant decrease in hours per week that a student engages in a STEM training opportunity, and any decrease in hours below the 20-hours-per-week minimum required under this rule;
3.Within five business days of the termination or departure of the student during the authorized period of OPT, I will report such termination or departure to the DSO (Note: business days do not include federal holidays or weekend days; and an employer shall consider a student to have departed when the employer knows the student has left the practical training opportunity, or when the student has not reported for practical training for a period of five consecutive business days without the consent of the employer); and
4.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214), which include, but are not limited to, the following:
a.The student’s practical training opportunity is directly related to the STEM degree that qualifies the student for the STEM OPT extension, and the position offered to the student achieves the objectives of his or her participation in this training program;
b.The student will receive on-site supervision and training, consistent with this Plan, by experienced and knowledgeable staff;
c.The employer has sufficient resources and personnel to provide the specified training program set forth in this Plan, and the employer is prepared to implement that program, including at the location(s) identified in this Plan;
d.The student on a STEM OPT extension will not replace a full- or part-time, temporary or permanent U.S. worker. The terms and conditions of the STEM practical training opportunity—including duties, hours, and compensation—are commensurate with the terms and conditions applicable to the employer’s similarly situated U.S. workers or, if the employer does not employ and has not recently employed more than two similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment, the terms and conditions of other similarly situated U.S. workers in the area of employment; and
e.The training conducted pursuant to this Plan complies with all applicable Federal and State requirements relating to employment.
Note: DHS may, at its discretion, conduct a site visit of the employer to ensure that program requirements are being met, including that the employer possesses and maintains the ability and resources to provide structured and guided work-based learning experiences consistent with this Plan.
Signature of Employer Official with Signatory Authority (Sign in ink):
Printed Name and Title of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
Printed Name of Employing Organization:
Page 2 of 5
SECTION 5: TRAINING PLAN FOR STEM OPT STUDENTS (Completed by Student and Employer)
EMPLOYER SITE INFORMATION
Site Name:
Name of Official:
Official's Email:
Site Address (Street, City, State, ZIP):
Official's Title:
Official's Phone Number:
Note: for the remaining fields in this section, employers who already have an internal/pre-existing training plan in place may fill in the details based on that plan.
Student Role: Describe the student's role with the employer and how that role is directly related to enhancing the student's knowledge obtained through his or her qualifying STEM degree.
Goals and Objectives: Describe how the assignment(s) with the employer will help the student achieve his or her specific objectives for work-based learning related to his or her STEM degree. The description must both specify the student's goals regarding specific knowledge, skills, or techniques as well as the means by which they will be achieved.
Employer Oversight: Explain how the employer provides oversight and supervision of individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such oversight and supervision, please describe.
Measures and Assessments: Explain how the employer measures and confirms whether individuals filling positions such as that being filled by the named F-1 student are acquiring new knowledge and skills. If the employer has a training program or related policy in place that controls such measures and assessments, please describe.
Page 3 of 5
Additional Remarks (optional): Provide additional information pertinent to the Plan.
SECTION 6: EMPLOYER OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
Employer Official with Signatory Authority - I certify that:
1.I have reviewed, understand, and will follow this Training Plan for STEM OPT Students (Plan);
2.I will conduct the required periodic evaluations of the student;*
3.I will adhere to all applicable regulatory provisions that govern this program (see 8 CFR Part 214.2(f)(10)(ii)); and
4.I will notify the DSO regarding any material changes to or material deviations from this Plan at the earliest available opportunity, including if I believe the student is not receiving appropriate training as delineated in this Plan.
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
AUTHORITIES: Section 101(a)(15)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, as amended (INA), 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(F), Section 641 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA), Pub. L. 104-208, Div. C, 110 Stat. 3009-546 (codified at 8 U.S.C. 1372), Section 502 of the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, Pub. L. 107-173, 116 Stat. 543 (codified at 8 U.S.C. 1762) and Homeland Security Presidential Directive No. 2 (HSPD-2), authorize U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to collect the information requested in this form.
PURPOSE: The information collection on this form is used to assist in the administration of the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension so that Designated School Officials (DSO) can properly recommend the Student for and review and help coordinate his or her STEM optional practical training opportunity.
ROUTINE USES: The information collected on this form may be shared with: the individuals who signed the Plan, relevant DSOs acting as liaisons with the DHS, Federal, State, local, or foreign government entities for law enforcement purposes, Members of Congress in response to requests on the Student’s behalf, or as otherwise authorized pursuant to its published Privacy Act system of records notice - Privacy Act of 1974: U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, DHS/ICE-001 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) System of Records (https://www.dhs.gov/system-records-notices-sorns).
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the information requested on this form may delay or prevent participation in a STEM OPT opportunity.
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT
The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 7.5 hours per response, including time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary documentation, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, send them to: U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Policy, 500 12th Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20536
*See evaluation forms that follow for student’s first evaluation, to occur before the one year anniversary of the start date of the student’s STEM OPT employment authorization, and final program evaluation.
Page 4 of 5
EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Provide a self-evaluation of your performance, using the measures previously identified, in applying and acquiring new knowledge, skills, and competencies identified in the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students. Discuss accomplishments, successful projects, overall contributions, etc., during this review period. Address whether there are any modifications to the objectives and goals for projects, or new areas for skill and competency development.
Range of Evaluation Dates: From (mm-dd-yyyy):
To (mm-dd-yyyy):
Printed Name of Employer Official with Signatory Authority:
FINAL EVALUATION ON STUDENT PROGRESS
Page 5 of 5
Completing the ICE I-983 form is an essential step in your process. After gathering the necessary information and documentation, you'll want to ensure accuracy and clarity as you move through each section. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.
After completing the steps above, it's important to assemble any additional documents that may be required alongside the I-983 form. Double-check your submission for completeness before sending it to the appropriate parties for processing. Staying organized will help streamline the rest of your application process.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a document required for students in the United States who are seeking an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) under the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program. This form outlines the training plan and ensures that the employment will provide practical training directly related to the student's field of study.
Students who are on F-1 visas and wish to apply for a 24-month extension of their STEM OPT must complete and submit the I-983 form. This requirement applies to those who have recently completed a degree in a STEM field and are currently engaged in qualified employment that meets the STEM requirements.
The I-983 form includes several sections that require detailed information about the student, the employer, and the training plan. Important elements include:
The I-983 form establishes a framework for the student's training experience. It is not only a bureaucratic requirement but also a tool that helps ensure the training is meaningful and beneficial. The outlined goals and objectives enable both the student and employer to focus on the essential aspects of the training.
Once the I-983 form is completed and signed by both the student and the employer, the student must submit the form to their Designated School Official (DSO) for review. The DSO will then endorse the form and provide it to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the student's STEM OPT application packet.
Updates to the I-983 form are required whenever there are significant changes to the training plan, such as a change in employer or significant adjustments to the duties, goals, or supervision structure. The student must resubmit the updated form to their DSO and, if necessary, to USCIS.
Failing to submit the I-983 form can jeopardize your eligibility for the STEM OPT extension. The Department of Homeland Security mandates its submission as part of maintaining lawful status during your extension period. Non-compliance could lead to termination of your OPT status.
Yes, employers often play a critical role in completing the I-983 form. Their input is valuable in describing the training plan, including the specific goals and responsibilities. It is beneficial for students to work closely with their employers to ensure the information is accurate and reflective of the training objectives.
Students can seek assistance from their institution’s international student office or the Designated School Official (DSO). Additionally, the USCIS website provides resources and guidelines on completing the I-983 form. Various educational and immigration websites also offer helpful insights.
The ICE I-983 form, also known as the Training Plan for STEM OPT Students, is vital for many international students pursuing practical training in the United States. Errors on this form can lead to significant delays in employment or even jeopardize a student's visa status. Here are ten common mistakes individuals often make when completing the I-983 form.
One frequent error is failing to provide complete and accurate information. When students write vague descriptions or leave fields blank, it sets a troublesome tone from the start. Each section of the form must be properly filled out with relevant details to reflect the training opportunity accurately.
Another mistake happens in the training plan’s objectives. Many forget to outline specific and measurable goals related to their fields of study. The objectives should clearly demonstrate how the training is not only beneficial to the employer but also how it enhances the student’s learning experience.
Moreover, some applicants neglect to explain how they will receive mentorship and guidance during their training. A strong mentoring relationship is crucial in a STEM environment, and it is essential to detail how this support will be provided. Failing to do so can raise red flags during the review process.
Incorrectly listing the employer's contact information is another common pitfall. Be sure to check that the name, address, and phone number of the employer are accurate. A simple typo could hinder communication between the student and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
It's also wise to avoid generalized statements about the job responsibilities. Instead, applicants should provide specific examples of tasks that will be undertaken during the training period. This level of detail shows a strong connection to the student’s degree and demonstrates the practical application of their studies.
When it comes to the student’s signature, some individuals either forget to sign the form or do so incorrectly. The signature must belong to the student, and it should be clear and legible. Remember, this is not only a formality but also a declaration affirming the accuracy of the submitted information.
A common oversight involves not updating the form when changes occur. If there are changes in the training site, supervisor, or job responsibilities, students must revise the form and submit it to their Designated School Official (DSO) immediately to maintain compliance.
Another mistake is underestimating the importance of the employer's certifications. The form requires a signature from the employer verifying their commitment to follow the training plan. Omitting this step can lead to delays in processing, so it’s crucial to ensure all necessary signatures are obtained.
Some students may not understand or acknowledge the conditions of the STEM OPT extension as outlined in the I-983. Being uninformed about these requirements can lead to complications later. Review the conditions carefully to ensure all aspects are covered.
Lastly, individuals often overlook submitting the form on time. Delays in sending the I-983 can disrupt the timeline for obtaining the necessary training opportunity. Staying organized and adhering to deadlines is fundamental for a smooth application process.
The ICE I-983 form is essential for international students seeking STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) extensions. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that facilitate the process, ensure compliance, and provide essential information. Below is a list of these commonly used documents, along with brief descriptions of each.
Acquiring and submitting these documents alongside the ICE I-983 form can significantly enhance the chances of approval for a STEM OPT extension. It ensures that all aspects of the employment and training process meet the requirements established by immigration authorities.
The ICE I-983 form, which is used for the STEM OPT extension, shares similarities with several other important documents in the immigration and educational context. Here’s a look at six documents that have qualities in common with the I-983:
Understanding these documents will help in navigating the complexities of maintaining legal status and ensuring eligibility for work in the U.S.
When filling out the ICE I-983 form, it is important to approach the process with care and attention to detail. The following list highlights key actions that should and should not be taken to ensure an effective submission.
The ICE I-983 form, officially known as the "Training Plan for STEM OPT Students," is a crucial document for international students pursuing Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Below are four common misunderstandings related to this form:
Understanding these misconceptions can help international students better navigate the complexities of the STEM OPT application process and ensure compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
Complete the I-983 form accurately. The information provided must reflect the actual training plan and objectives.
Make sure to describe the role of the student. Clearly outline their responsibilities and how they align with the overall goals of the training.
Include measurable outcomes. Specify what the student will accomplish and how their progress will be evaluated.
Double-check compliance with regulations. Ensure the plan adheres to the requirements set by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Obtain required signatures. The form must be signed by both the student and the designated school official (DSO) before submission.
Osha Privacy Case - This form helps employers track incidents and improve workplace safety.
Baseball Evaluation Sheet - Assess overall performance in game-like situations.
Qdro Meaning - Each benefit assignment option caters to diverse financial situations.